Spain strengthens its marine protection, moving towards conservation goals for 2030. After a decade of scientific efforts and social collaboration, the country has significantly expanded its protected marine areas. In 2017, only 8% of its marine space was protected; today, this figure has grown to 22.5%, marking one of the largest expansions in Europe.
Spain advances in its marine protection
This development puts Spain on the path to the goal of safeguarding 30% of its natural ecosystems by the year 2030. The expansion includes the protection of cetaceans, vulnerable habitats, and endangered species, with more than 15,000 people and 2,000 organizations involved in the project that redefines the management of the country’s marine resources.
The expansion of the marine Natura 2000 Network is a crucial pillar for biodiversity conservation, ensuring the protection of key ecosystems. This momentum comes at a decisive moment for European biodiversity, positioning Spain as a leader in ocean conservation at the continental level.
The sustained growth of protected areas is the result of a solid strategy focused on scientific planning, institutional collaboration, and adherence to international commitments to combat biodiversity loss.
In addition to protecting threatened species, these measures increase the resilience of ecosystems against challenges such as climate change, ocean acidification, and habitat degradation by human activities.
The creation of 12 new protected marine areas is one of the most notable achievements of the LIFE Intemares project, increasing the ecological coverage of the marine Natura 2000 Network.
Among the key actions is the establishment of the Mediterranean Cetacean Migration Corridor, crucial for the protection of whales and dolphins, mitigating risks from maritime traffic and other pressures. This advancement has been supported by 63 oceanographic campaigns, expanding knowledge about the seabed and vulnerable species.
The use of advanced technologies has been fundamental in identifying priority conservation areas, allowing for more sustainable management of marine resources. Collaborations with 2,000 entities have demonstrated that ocean protection is a shared responsibility.
Specialized training has been crucial, with more than 6,300 professionals trained in protected area management and ecological monitoring. These initiatives have been supported by 45 million euros, channeled through 36 aid calls, fostering a multitude of complementary projects.
Spain is not only expanding its network of protected marine areas, but also creating new opportunities to obtain European funding, consolidate alliances, and strengthen a sustainable blue economy. This integrated approach is key to facing environmental pressures and protecting the country’s natural resources.
The future challenge is to ensure effective management of these spaces through robust conservation plans and continuous scientific monitoring. Spain’s marine biodiversity plays a vital role in sustainable fishing, responsible tourism, and resilience to climate change.
